Common Historical Inaccuracies in Movies: Fact vs. Fiction
Common Historical Inaccuracies in Movies: Fact vs. Fiction
Introduction
Historical accuracy is a critical component of cinematic storytelling. However, many movies violate this standard by incorporating inaccuracies that can mislead viewers or perpetuate myths. This article delves into some of the most common historical errors found in films, highlighting the differences between historical fact and cinematic fiction.
The Common Errors
Relic of Invented Equipment and Technology
One of the most prevalent mistakes in historical films is the presence of equipment or technology that did not exist during the film's supposed period. For instance, in the 1977 film A Bridge Too Far, the inclusion of a Leopard 1 tank is anachronistic. This tank, which was not in production until the 1960s, is depicted as a 1944 asset in the movie. Another example is That My Folks, where a Nazi Bell 47 helicopter is shown, which wasn’t manufactured until much later.
Similarly, in Raiders of the Lost Ark, the film is set in 1936 while the 1941 version of the famous Hindenburg airship disaster is referenced. This indicates a significant time discrepancy. In Indiana Jones and the Last Crusade, the film is placed in 1938, coinciding with the Hindenburg disaster, which led to a suspension of airship flights in Germany in 1936—a year before the film’s setting.
Misplaced Aircraft
Another common mistake is the inclusion of aircraft from later eras in earlier films. This is evident in Stranger Things - Season 4, where a Boeing 777 is glimpsed, despite the fact that the first flight of this plane was in 1992, six years after the show's setting. The use of outdated aircraft can also be seen in Austin Powers: International Man of Mystery, where Austin, frozen in 1967, encounters a 747, which was first built in 1968 and not operational until 1969.
Warrior Settings and Historical Combat
Biggles 1986 is a prime example of where the setting and content do not align. The film's World War I setting features a Tiger Moth, a biplane manufactured in the late 1920s, more than a decade after the era depicted. Moreover, the inclusion of a Stearman, another plane from the 1920s, for the main German villain further distracts from historical accuracy. Similarly, in Waterworld, the portrayal of Mount Everest being solely above water due to melting glaciers is highly exaggerated and unrealistic.
The Myth of the Middle Ages
Ethnic Insertion
Even in films set in the Middle Ages, the depiction of historical periods is often criticized for inaccuracy. For example, the character's hygiene in medieval films is extensively romanticized, portraying a world where everyone had sparkling teeth and immaculate clothing. In reality, hygiene standards were far from the modern expectations. The bathing and dental care of ancient times were much more rustic and less frequent for most people.
Droit du Seigneur
The idea of the "Droit du Seigneur" is another common historical myth perpetuated in movies. This refers to the supposed right of a lord to sleep with a peasant woman on her wedding night. Although this theme is widely used in films as it adds drama, historians debate its historical accuracy. It appears more as a myth than a factual historical practice, yet it remains a popular trope in historical dramas.
Climate Myths
The movie Waterworld provides a stark example of the exaggerated portrayal of climate scenarios. The film suggests a catastrophic rise in sea levels due to all the world's glaciers melting. However, even in a scenario where all glaciers melted, the expected rise in sea levels would be around 200 feet, not five miles. This level of dramatization oversimplifies scientific scenarios to create a more dramatic narrative, often for the purpose of attracting attention and funding.
Conclusion
While historical inaccuracies in movies can be entertaining, they often lead to misconceptions and a distorted view of the past. It is essential for filmmakers to balance creative storytelling with historical accuracy. Not only does this enhance the authenticity of the films, but it also educates and informs a wider audience. By adhering to the historical facts and dispelling myths, filmmakers can create a more immersive and accurate cinematic experience.